Southern Smoke, the authentic barbecue restaurant in Old Town Newhall that took the SCV by storm, is continuing to up the ante by introducing chili to their menu as of Friday, May 5th.  Owner Sam Gardian has partnered with the world-famous Chili John’s to bring their signature chili to main street.

Many expats of the San Fernando Valley remember fondly the u-shaped counter in Burbank which has been there for over 70 years.  Chili John’s was originally opened by John Issac in Green Bay, Wisconsin in 1913, and has been the same recipe since the founder created it in 1900.  When John’s son Ernie moved to Southern California, opened the Burbank location in 1946 and became a popular spot for workers in the city’s post-war aerospace industry.

In Burbank, Chili John’s comes as one of three “temperatures” (mild, medium or hot) and today there are three varieties (original beef, chicken or vegetarian), served by itself, over spaghetti, rice or even beans, if that’s your thing.  Gardian says the beef and chicken varieties will be available as a side or entree at Southern Smoke.  Garnished with some cheddar cheese, onions and sour cream, it’s a little bowl of heaven… now available in Santa Clarita.